No major changes reported from the European market this
week but many are still flourishing with high demand from ASF-affected regions.

The Pig Site

17 September 2019

ISN reports that this week, supply and demand for pigs
for slaughter is altogether balanced across the EU market. Until recently, the
quantities of live pigs on offer – which is undergoing a seasonal spike – could
be marketed swiftly across the borders.

The official figures stagnated in Germany, while the live
animals’ market is reported to be cleared completely in Austria. In Belgium the
quotation also remains steady, although currently the Belgians are not directly
benefiting from the Chinese demand because of various local outbreaks of
African swine fever.

As for the meat trade within Europe, limits are still
emerging in reaching higher sales prices. Impulse was mostly attributed by
exports towards China, where the demand is continues to be high. The outbreak
of ASF in the Philippines also has hopes rising for pork exporters.

In the meantime, China has stopped the intended tariff
increase for the time being. As is reported by the media, Chinese enterprises
have already begun to investigate prices for US products. Pork from the EU
might have to cope with competition.

The French quotation, after having improved over the past
weeks, was able to record another small increase. There the quantities of pigs
for slaughter do appear sufficient. At the same time, the French meat industry
is complaining quite loudly about unfavourable margins...